Masses attached to valves

A number of abnormal structures can be seen attached to the heart valves. An infected heart valve may develop a visible collection of bacteria known as a ‘vegetation’; however, most of these patients will have reported severe symptoms – such as fevers and breathlessness –  before their scan has been performed, and hence vegetations are usually discovered in the hospital setting. In addition, there are some benign tumours – such as ‘Lambl’s excrescences’ or ‘fibroelastomas’ – which can grow on valves and, depending on their size and associated symptoms, may need referral for removal.